So, I have survived the first trimester of my first year in Africa, and it has been a learning experience to say the least. Each year I am required to give 2 tests and 3 “other evaluations” be that homework, oral exams group projects, or whatever else you can imagine. The year ended with finals tests being held in the 11th week, 2 weeks before the semester ended. This does not make much sense to me but I just do what I’m told. As thought many of my students stopped coming to class for the last two weeks, so I used these smaller classes to do fun activities like listening to music in English and group competitions. Once all was said and done my 11th graders only had 25% failing and my 10th grade classes had about 40% failing. Sounds shocking to Americans, but trust me that is an accomplishment. The grades here are on a scale of 0 to 20 and you need a 10 to pass. The average on my exams is usually an 8, and it’s rare for a student to get over a 15. That’s just how the system is here. I handed in my final grades and then it was off to Chimoio for reconnect conference.
Reconnect is meant to be a time to celebrate surviving our first 4 months at site and review and refresh on Peace Corps policies. It also means a few nights in a hotel with a pool and hot running water in the shower (I’ve never felt so clean!), a giant smorgasbord of food, and lots of quality english speaking time with 12 of my fellow trainees. I’m pretty sure I gained at least 5 pounds over my stay here. The fact that you do not have to make the food, there is cheese and drip coffee and CHICKEN makes it hard to not eat at every opportunity (3 meals a day plus 2 snacks). I’m so full it hurts, but I know when I go back to site I’ll be missing it. It has been a fun conference getting to share our own experiences and learn from others. I’ll be taking back a few tips to site and try to use them in my teaching for second trimester. Well, I’m off to enjoy the rest of my vacation! Talk to you soon
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